Commercial product routing system with video vending capability

ABSTRACT

A traffic control system selectively interfaces members of plural groups, as buyer groups and vendor groups, for video communication through a dial-up telephone system, for analyzing and compiling data, scheduling appointments, implementing conferences, consummating sales and the like. The traffick-control system comprises a telephonic interface apparatus for interfacing remote telephonic terminals of the dial-up telephone system identified with the members of plural groups, a video recording unit for recording and playing video transcriptions, a storage memory for storing data on the members, including telephonic terminal numbers and area-of-interest codes and a control computer to selectively interconnect the video recording unit with the remote telephone terminals through the telephonic interface apparatus to record and receive video communication.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a divisional of application Ser. No.08/189,405, entitled “COMMERCIAL PRODUCT ROUTING SYSTEM WITH VIDEOVENDING CAPABILITY” and filed on Jan. 27, 1994, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/154,313, entitled“SCHEDULING AND PROCESSING SYSTEM FOR TELEPHONE VIDEO COMMUNICATION” andfiled on Nov. 17, 1993, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,284, which is acontinuation-in-part application of application Ser. No. 08/067,783,entitled “VIDEOPHONE SYSTEM FOR SCRUTINY MONITORING WITH COMPUTERCONTROL” and filed on May 25, 1993, now abandoned, which is acontinuation-in-part application of application Ser. No. 08/031,235,entitled “VIDEOPHONE SYSTEM FOR SCRUTINY MONITORING WITH COMPUTERCONTROL” and filed on Mar. 12, 1993, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,412,708. Thesubject matter in all the above-identified co-pending and commonly ownedapplications is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field ofcomputerized telephone and video communication, and more particularly,to a communication traffic control system for providing videocommunication through a dial-up telephone system, for selectivelyinterfacing members of plural groups, for example, wholesale buyergroups and vendor groups. Such a system may be used in a variety ofapplications, such as for directing and exchanging offers and responsesat the wholesale level, between selective members of plural groups, foranalyzing and compiling data, scheduling and implementing conferences,consummating sales and the like. It is currently contemplated that thepresent invention may be used, for example, in merchandisingapplications, including purchasing, selling, marketing or the like,educational conventions for medical doctors and other professionals,game shows, dating services and so on.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Over the years, integration of computer and telephonetechnologies has brought many advances in the telecommunicationindustry. Functionally integrating human operators with telephonenetwork capabilities, voice and data switching capabilities, computerapplications and databases, and voice processing technology not onlyprovides human operators with immediate access to information from awide variety of sources, but allows them to intelligently process eachcall as well. Telephone switches are linked with computers to coordinatecomputer information and intelligence with call handling capabilities toautomatically add relevant data, as well as facsimile, graphics, videoor audio communication capabilities. Select services or equipment suchas automatic number identification (ANI) or dialed number identificationservice (DNIS) enhance calls and human capabilities by forwardingidentifying information preceding a telephone call, thereby, eliminatingsteps otherwise performed by people to capture information regarding thecaller. For applications involving large scale processing of calls,switch and host databases automatically link calls with a caller'srecord, eliminating the need for the caller to enter an identificationnumber when using a voice response system.

[0004] More revolutionary applications use ANI to simultaneously passboth the call and the caller's current record to an operator's telephoneand terminal. This obviates the need for a person to obtain, enter andreceive the caller's record from the database. Such advances haveimmensely enhanced human capabilities for communication, datamanipulation and control functions.

[0005] Somewhat concurrently, rapid developments in computer, telephoneand video technologies have introduced the concept of visualcommunications or video conferencing. In particular, efforts atintegrating these technologies have gained enormous momentum in recentyears, resulting, in part, from a general desire in all industries toconserve time and expenses, and thereby, maximize human efficiency andproductivity. The advent of videophones has enabled users to visuallycommunicate from remote locations. Many industries are rapidly embracingthe idea of video conferencing or visual communication to eliminateescalating travel expenses. Employees or customers in different placescan take part in interactive training sessions or seminars with no lossof time for travel.

[0006] However, obstacles remain, particularly in traditional areas ofcumbersome communication. Still, with developments, virtually everyindustry segment can profit from interactive data sharing in real timewith the added advantage of face-to-face communication. Innovativetechnical advances are fast satisfying promises of enhancedcapabilities, thereby, allowing users to share and manipulate imagesfrom remote locations, such as pictures, graphs, maps or the like.

[0007] Technical breakthroughs in audio and video compression technologymake desktop video conferencing and visual communication both economicaland practical for everyday business communications. To fully participatein video conferencing, the user's equipment must communicate withsimilar units, albeit, from different equipment vendors. TheInternational Telephone and Telegraph Consultative Committee (CCITT) hasdefined a standard called H.261 (or “Px64”) detailing how video andaudio signals are compressed and decompressed for transmission across acommon link. At present, no one industry standard and format has beenadopted for video conferencing systems. Thus, the systems available onthe market are not always compatible. As a consequence, many differenttypes of video codecs (coders/decoders) are currently in use. Forexample, the AT&T AVP CODEC is a three-chip set that digitally processeshigh quality, full motion video images and sounds that are compatiblewith the latest videoconferencing standards.

[0008] At any rate, ongoing efforts at achieving compatibility andproviding compression schemes that can transmit color images over POTS(plain old telephone system) all over the world are in the offing.Approaches for incorporating live-action, color video with standardvoice telephone lines via networks and modems are currently beingintroduced. By using a suitable video capture board and a modem, livevideo may be received and displayed on any 386 or 486 personal computerrunning Microsoft Windows™. The frame rate depends upon the type ofdisplay and type of communication hardware. For example, over a normaldial-up telephone line, a computer with a VGA (video graphics array)display set at 32,000 colors, a 486 CPU and a 14.4 kbs (thousand bitsper second) modem can achieve a frame rate of 5 frames per second. Thelink between the personal computers can be established in several ways,for example, by a modem, LAN (local area network), serial port and otherhigh speed digital links.

[0009] To consider an example of cumbersome communication in themerchandising industry, wholesale vendors or sellers of goods typicallyspend many hours attempting to schedule appointments with various buyersfor different organizations, travelling to and from the buyers'facilities, and waiting for meetings, which may sometimes last only ashort duration. Unfortunately, considerably more time and expense isincurred, in travelling to and from different facilities, than isdesirable. Moreover, as a practical matter, specific vendor sales peopleare typically assigned to merchandise specific goods and interact withspecific buyers, resulting in a need for more vendor personnel dedicatedto particular buyers.

[0010] Moreover, in the event a specific seller wishes to broadcast aspecial offering of a particular item to plural buyers, for example, todispose of an inventory of distressed items, the seller must undertakeconsiderable effort, such as place an advertisement or otherwiseinitiate contact with buyers. An advertisement is likely to be viewedonly by random buyers, thus, not always proving to be a reliable methodof soliciting offers from all possible buyers. Moreover, initiatingindividual contact with a series of buyers, until eventually securing afinal sale, constitutes an arduous task. Similarly, in situations wherea buyer wishes to solicit proposals from vendors for a particular item,the same practice prevails.

[0011] Accordingly, the present invention recognizes the need for asystem to communicate with remote locations over a widely distributedarea, from other places, such as a central location, for theapplications discussed above as well as many other diverse applicationswith similar requirements. In particular, the present system recognizesthe need for directing and exchanging communications, such as offers andresponses, between select members of plural groups or sub-groups,analyzing and compiling data relating to such members, schedulingappointments, implementing face-to-face conferences (in real-time), andconsummating transactions and billing relating to transactions betweensuch groups.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Generally, the system of the present invention involves trafficregulation and control for video communication between a plurality ofremote, widely distributed locations, from a central unit, utilizingdial-up telephone facilities in today's computer environment, and withvoice quality lines. Specifically, for example, the dynamic graphics oftelephonic video (on standard analog lines and digital lines overIntegrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)) facilitate videophone, whilevideo still displays and digital lines facilitate high fidelity (hi-fi)video displays along with audio capabilities, all combined with theinteractive capability of computers to attain an effective commercialproduct routing system with video vending capability.

[0013] The system of the present invention contemplates applicationsranging from merchandising (including purchasing, selling, marketing orthe like) to educational conventions for medical doctors and otherprofessionals, game shows, dating services and so on. The present systemis configured to direct and exchange communication traffic, for example,in the form of offers and responses, between selective members of pluralgroups or sub-groups, such as vendors and buyers, for analyzing andcompiling data, scheduling appointments and implementing visualconferences, consummating transactions and the like. Selective routingof communication traffic from a central unit or controlled by thecentral unit effectively prevents information overload.

[0014] In one disclosed embodiment of the present invention, personalcomputers equipped with capabilities for providing either analog video(analog motion and analog high resolution freeze frame) or digital videoor both, and speakerphones (or regular telephone instruments), forone-way or two-way communication are placed at each of a plurality ofremote locations to communicate with a central unit that may includeseveral communication and control stations also equipped with some orall of the same capabilities. As a part of traffic control operations, avideo display (depicting motion and color) may be provided withgraphics, audio and data signals, at each communication and controlstation, as well as, the remote locations. The personal computers mayutilize well known image enhancement techniques to facilitate highresolution images for closer observation.

[0015] In accordance with one exemplary embodiment related to wholesalemerchandising, a telephonic interface appointment scheduling and routingsystem includes a central traffic control system, independently managedby a third party and located remote from all vendors' and buyers'facilities. The central traffic control system schedules appointmentsand routes offers and responses to and from select members of pluralgroups, such as buyers and vendors, to expedite traditionally complexpurchasing operations. Routing of offers and responses may also takeplace between members of sub-groups of plural groups. Calls may beclassified into types, for example, a vendor with a special offering, abuyer responding to a special offering, a buyer soliciting proposals, avendor responding with a proposal and a vendor or a buyer seeking anappointment. Calls of the various types may involve some form ofqualification or approval. For example, access to the system may belimited to qualified or registered entities. Also, certain limitationsmay be imposed, such as calls revealing one vendor's proposal to acompetitor are inhibited.

[0016] In accordance with an example, a vendor may wish to broadcast aspecial offering of a particular item to interested buyers. The routingsystem analyzes buyer data, typically acquired during registration, andcompiles a list of buyers to whom the broadcast is transmitted. Specialbuyers may be specified by the vendors making the special offering. Forexample, a vendor may designate special buyers from a list of allparticipating buyers and vendors provided to each registered member.From time to time, periodic updates on new members may be circulated.

[0017] To facilitate equitable routing of special offerings to allinterested buyers, in situations, where there are only a limited numberof communication lines, the routing system may include a random numbergenerator to randomly select subsets of buyers and may transmit thebroadcast in sequence to each subset. In some situations, the routingsystem may have the capability to request and add additionalcommunication lines in the event a caller (vendor or buyer) desiresconcurrent broadcast to all potential receiving parties. Of course, insuch cases the caller would incur the additional charges. A numberingsystem may also be adopted, whereby broadcasts are transmitted tosubsets of a designated number of buyers (for example, equal to thenumber of communication lines) in rotating sequence. For example, aparticular special offering may be broadcast first to subset number one,then subset number two and so on, while the next special offering may bebroadcast first to subset number two, then subset number three and soon. A video recording of the offered item may be stored in a video fileserver at the central location, thus, allowing interested buyers to viewthe item prior to making a purchase. Likewise, buyers may wish tosolicit proposals for a particular item from vendors qualified fordesignated merchandise. Communication between the routing system and thedifferent buyers and vendors may be accomplished in a variety of ways,as for example, by electronic-mail (transmission of messages across anetwork between two desktop PCs), electronic bulletin boards, on-linecomputer services (such as Prodigy® or CompuServe®), facsimile,voice-mail or the like.

[0018] Vendors and buyers may directly communicate with the centraltraffic control system to seek or change appointments and updateinformation with respect to appointments with specific buyers. Inaccordance with one scenario, vendors may call the central trafficcontrol system and, upon qualification, schedule appointments withspecific buyers.

[0019] Appointments may be executed, on command, from a buyer locationor the central traffic control system. Communication may be initiatedconforming to the display capabilities at the vendor site. That is, asdisclosed, the central traffic control system or alternatively, pluralcoordinated such systems (located at one site or plural sites), as wellas, the buyer locations, incorporate multiple video format capabilitiesalong with a bridge or switch unit to drive a display unit or monitor ina selected format in accordance with the capabilities of the currentvendor. As disclosed, a single monitor may accommodate several formatsor plural monitors can operate selectively for concurrent multipledisplays.

[0020] A sequence of scheduled appointments may be developed, asprogrammed along with intervals of video communication. A record of thescheduled appointments is maintained by the central traffic controlsystem.

[0021] At the appropriate times, identification designations for remotelocations are provided in sequence, to address a memory for fetchingtelephone numbers and/or graphic display data also recorded when theappointments are scheduled. Accordingly, in sequence, vendor locationsare dialed up via the public telephone system, either manually orautomatically, to obtain audio-video communication providing an image ofthe vendor and the surrounding area at a specific vendor location.Additionally, data associated with a vendor (or a buyer) may begraphically displayed for convenient reference. For each scene displaywith respect to a specific vendor, the graphic display of pertinent dataprovided may, for example, indicate the telephone number, the PINnumber, the video format, vendor rating, current vendor delivery statusand so on.

[0022] Special controls such as a mouse may be instituted enablingmanifestations at the vendor location to initiate action or alter thedisplay. Special operations also may be commanded through thevideophone, video still (high quality) or high fidelity (hi-fi) videomeans either on manual initiative or automatically by automaticapparatus.

[0023] A video recorder and/or video printer may be located at a remotevendor location, central traffic control station or buyer location forselectively or continuously obtaining a video recording or videoprintout of displays.

[0024] Multiple coordinated central traffic control stations may beemployed to communicate with widely distributed vendor or buyerlocations with capabilities to route calls to each other, in the eventthat all of the communication lines are occupied and there is aconsiderable backlog of calls. Calls may be routed to the next availableoperator (buyer), for example, in the event appointments scheduled for aparticular buyer last longer than contemplated, or another buyerfamiliar with that line of products may step in and handle theappointment.

[0025] Under some circumstances it may be desirable to prioritize calls.For example, appointments may be queued in sequence, specificappointments may precede other routed appointments in accordance with anoverride feature.

[0026] A record of the number of calls and related charges incurred bythe buyers for appointments is maintained, which may be analyzed andultimately rebilled to the vendors. Of course, charges for schedulingare incurred directly by the vendors. Also, a record of charges incurredfor each caller (buyer or vendor), depending upon the transactioninitiated, may be maintained and billed to each caller.

[0027] These as well as other features of the present system will becomeapparent from the detailed description which follows, consideredtogether with the appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] A complete understanding of the invention and its advantages maybe gained from consideration of the following description of somedisclosed embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

[0029]FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the system in accordance with oneembodiment, illustrating a telephonic interface appointment schedulingand routing system;

[0030]FIG. 2 is a more detailed block and pictorial diagram of thesystem of FIG. 1, illustrating the basic components of the schedulingand routing system;

[0031]FIG. 3 is a graphic representation of a portion of the controlpanel of an element in the system of FIG. 2;

[0032]FIG. 4 is an exemplary format of an identification card issued bythe scheduling and routing system;

[0033]FIG. 5 is a more detailed block diagram illustrating the centraltraffic control system of the scheduling and routing system of FIG. 2;

[0034]FIG. 6 is a logic flow diagram illustrating an exemplary operationformat of the system of FIG. 5 for automated qualification of callers,such as vendors or buyers;

[0035]FIG. 7 is a fragmentary diagrammatic representation of anexemplary storage cell for information specific to a vendor, as may beformatted in the system of the present invention;

[0036]FIG. 8 is a fragmentary diagrammatic representation of anexemplary storage cell for information specific to a buyer, as may beformatted in the system of the present invention;

[0037]FIG. 9 is an exemplary form indicating a buyer's request; and

[0038]FIG. 10 is an exemplary message transmitted from the centraltraffic station to a buyer or a vendor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] As indicated above, a significant aspect of the scheduling androuting system of the present invention is based on recognizing that adial-up public telephone system may be effectively utilized for visualcommunication and conferences between a plurality of remote locationsregulated and controlled by a central traffic control station. Morespecifically, it has been recognized that for an effective communicationtraffic control system, dial-up voice quality lines, such as standardanalog or digital lines, may be employed variously in conjunction withvideophone equipment, computer facilities (personal computers (PCs) withvideo capabilities) and various forms of telephonic equipment as voicegenerators, auto dialers and D-channel or in-band signalling apparatus.

[0040] To that end, a dial-up public telephone system TS is illustratedin FIG. 1 (upper center) affording effective communication between aplurality of remote locations, for example, locations L1-Ln representingvendor sites, and at least one central traffic control station TIS. Formerchandising applications, the remote specific vendor locationscommunicate with the central traffic control station TIS, which islocated remote from the buyers' and vendors' facilities.

[0041] As a buyer example, XYZ Drug Company (a large chain) may employindividual merchandise buyers responsible for purchasing specificcategories or sub-categories of items. For example, one buyer (person)may be responsible for purchasing body treatment products, such as skinand hair products, another buyer may be responsible for purchasingvitamins and over the counter medications, and yet another forpurchasing magazines and toys, and so on. The present system facilitatesselective transmission of communications between individual buyers ofplural buyer groups or sub-groups and qualified members of plural vendorgroups or sub-groups. For example, special offerings by vendors forparticular merchandise may be transmitted only to buyers designated forpurchase of the merchandise. Likewise, buyer requests for proposals onselect merchandise are transmitted only to vendors designated to sellthe merchandise. Similarly, appointments for conferences may bescheduled by vendors or buyers, although in keeping with presentmerchandising practices, it is generally contemplated that vendors wouldpursue scheduled appointments. However, appointments are generallyverified by buyers and appointment execution calls are generallyinitiated by buyers, either directly or automatically using autodialers.

[0042] A fully automated interactive voice response system includingARUs (audio response units) may schedule appointments for specificbuyers and subsequently, load schedules for all the buyers into a memoryat the central traffic control station. Alternatively, each specificbuyer's schedule may be transmitted to and loaded into a memory at eachbuyer terminal. In some instances, vendors may communicate with thetraffic control station in any of a variety of ways (touch-tone,electronic-mail, voice-mail, facsimile or the like) to make and/orverify appointments and/or initiate the conferences, if necessary. Inaddition, buyers may also communicate with the traffic control system toapprove appointments, or otherwise update information in any of avariety of ways (touch-tone, electronic-mail, voice-mail, facsimile orthe like). During visual conferences (in real-time), vendors may displaytheir goods, packaging or promotional displays and otherwise effectivelycommunicate with the buyers.

[0043] Along with a video signal display (real-time, color, motion,freeze frame), under manual or computer control, audio and data signalsare employed to supplement and enhance conferencing operations. In anexemplary system, each of the vendor locations may incorporate severalvideo speakerphones (with one-way and two-way communication and echocanceling), a camera (separate cameras also may be used to concurrentlyprovide images for a videophone and high quality still images),switches, automatic dialing devices and computer memory capability forinitiating and responding to commands from the central traffic controlsystem, as well as, for initiating various actions to accomplish changeor to accommodate special circumstances.

[0044] Conventionally, in merchandising applications, it is appropriatefor the vendors to incur communication expenses. To facilitate this, areduced rate service for long distance outbound calling, for exampleMEGACOM, may be installed at each of the buyers' facilities. Data oncalls made by the buyers may be obtained from the telephone company(e.g., AT&T telephone company) and analyzed to isolate calls made toeach specific vendor and thus, the cumulative charges incurred may becomputed. For example, outgoing call activity may be monitored at eachof the buyers' facilities or the independently managed, central trafficcontrol site and rebilled to specific vendors.

[0045] Alternatively, toll free or “800” services at each of the vendorlocations may be installed, and “800” number calls initiated by thebuyers may be billed to each of the vendor locations. Further, thecentral traffic control system may include a central detail service tocontract for and install telephone services at both the buyer and vendorlocations, in order to obtain and report on calls to and from thebuyers, as well as, centrally bill both buyers and vendors for all videotelephone communications.

[0046] Considerable other data may be developed and stored. For example,the central traffic control station for each buyer facility may maintaina record of outbound calls made by all the buyers located at thatfacility including data, such as the date and time of the call, the nameof the buyer initiating the call and the duration of the call.Accordingly, information for each buyer may be subsequently compiled.Likewise, the central traffic control station may maintain a record ofall the calls made by each vendor. For example, a specific organizationmay wish to ascertain the number of vendor calls to a particular buyer.Accordingly, the central traffic control station may compile such databy comparing vendor outbound calls with a database of buyers (includinginformation, such as telephone numbers, names etc.).

[0047] Furthermore, in some cases, a summary of each buyer's efficiencymay be recorded and provided to interested parties. For example, abuyer's efficiency may be ascertained by the number of video calls madeby a specific buyer every week, the average length of the video call,and other data displayed from the database, namely, name of the vendor,names of the persons participating in the call, and so on. For example,for a particular buyer a summary could indicate that during the week ofMar. 20, 1993, forty calls were made for an average length of twentyminutes. Detailed information may further indicate that specifically at10:00 a.m., on Mar. 20, 1993, a first appointment with Mr. John Blow, ofABC Fruit Company was initiated, which lasted for 1 hour and 12 minutes,and at 11:12 a.m., a second appointment with Ms. Mary Smith of XYZCutlery Company lasted 11 minutes and so on.

[0048] The central traffic control station TIS may automatically place acall (for example, to broadcast a proposal request from a buyer) to theappropriate vendor locations, determined by a database of vendorlocations qualified (for example, as by specific category orsub-category) for the particular merchandise for which the buyerrequests proposals. Likewise, when executing appointments, the buyer mayplace a call to the appropriate vendor location, determined also by adatabase associated with the particular one of the vendor locationsL1-Ln, with which the specific buyer has an appointment scheduled.Alternatively, the buyer may actuate an autodialer, such that theautodialer code number (obtained from the central traffic controlstation database) displayed on the buyer's video terminal connects himor her to the appropriate vendor. In the event there are complicationsor otherwise, the buyer may use a regular telephone or a cellulartelephone and manually dial the telephone number displayed on the videoterminal. It is currently recognized that cellular transmission willultimately provide dynamic motion and high resolutions freeze framedisplays.

[0049] The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1 shows the independentlymanaged, central traffic control system TIS (right), located remote fromthe buyer systems illustrated at BS1-BSn and the vendor terminals L1-Ln.Under control of the central traffic control system TIS, communicationis provided through a dial-up public telephone system TS, between thevendor terminals L1-Ln and the buyer systems BS1-BSn. The buyer systemBS1 is shown in some detail, specifically, as including a telephoneinterface switch SW coupled to a control computer CC for regulating aplurality of monitor stations V1-Vn.

[0050] Preliminarily, considering an exemplary sequence of operationswith reference to FIG. 1, assume that different vendor terminals L1-Lnare equipped with videophone, video still (high quality) or hi-fi videocapabilities. Alternatively, the vendors may have desktop personalcomputers incorporating live-action, color video with standard voicetelephone lines via networks and modems.

[0051] Each buyer system BS1-BSn may be equipped with a platform toaccommodate select communications with various vendors. Assume that aperson at vendor location L1 wishes to schedule an appointment with abuyer at buyer terminal V1. As a result, telephone equipment at thelocation L1 is actuated, either manually or automatically, promptingdial-up operations to accomplish a connection from the vendor locationL1 through the telephone system TS to the traffic control system TIS.Standard information, as the specific buyer with which the vendor may beentitled to schedule an appointment may be indicated by dialed numberidentification signals (DNIS) using a capability readily available fromthe telephone system TS, as for example on the so-called D-channel. Itis to be noted that while the D-channel apparatus provides oneoperational configuration, some DNIS and/or ANI (Automatic NumberIdentification) data signals can be received in-band without D-channelapparatus. In any event, such signals may direct or qualifycommunication under control of the system TIS. It should be noted thatDNIS and ANI signals can be used for identification, whereby the controlcomputer CC may fetch identification data for graphic displays.

[0052] As another feature, an incoming line can be designated at thecentral traffic control system, such as an “800” line to receive callsfrom any telephone (pay-phone, vendor location or the like) to promptscheduling. For example, a call on the “800” line may be answered by aninterface or an operator to schedule an appointment with a specificbuyer or vendor. The vendor might be specified by ANI signals whencalling from a specific vendor location. Accordingly, a vendor cansimply call the designated number from any telephone to enter thescheduling program.

[0053] For scheduling purposes, PIN numbers (personal identificationnumbers) are assigned to vendors. The PIN number may be coded toindicate the specific organization that a vendor is associated with.Alternatively, a database of PIN numbers correlating to specificorganizations may provide that information. Entry of a PIN number by avendor may qualify a vendor for contact with a select buyer. Initiatingcontact also may be controlled by a clock, for example, somecommunications might be limited to the hours between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m.Additionally, other specifications may be designated for specific groupsof vendors. Thus, the system may be configured such that DNIS and ANIcommunication features cross reference with the clock, prior toanswering. For example, if the present time is between 5 p.m. and 7p.m., only select vendor calls are accepted. Some vendors may beaccorded priority status allowing them to schedule appointments forselect priority days, for example, Thursdays. Similarly, priority statusmay be accorded to vendors offering distressed merchandise at discountrates.

[0054] As described in detail below, a priority field stored in thevendor's cell VC (FIG. 7) may incorporate a use-rate component, wherebyextent of use by vendors may be controlled. That is, FIG. 7 illustratesexemplary storage cells of the traffic control system TIS, whereininformation specific to each vendor and buyer, such as the telephonenumber, graphic data, merchandise codes, schedules and the like may bestored. For example, a vendor cell VC may be accessed by the telephonenumber and address to obtain information such as the vendor PIN number,telephone number, video format and so on. In some formats it may bedesirable to designate a rating for each vendor indicatingdependability, efficiency at delivering, credit worthiness, specificbuyer organizations with which the vendor is registered etc.

[0055] Furthermore, to indicate an established relationship, adesignation indicating priority may also be stored to isolate aparticular vendor from a plurality of vendors selling similar goods. Ofcourse, the vendor cell VC may also indicate the vendor's name, anyrelevant personal information, the company's name, other personsparticipating in a conference and so on. Similarly, data relating to thelast purchase may also be of importance to some buyers.

[0056] With the central traffic control system TIS interacting with aplurality of widely distributed vendors and buyers, a cross referencenumber identifying transactions with other buyers may be of importance.Moreover, a record of the buyers available and the time limit for eachbuyer is also recorded. Similarly, the priority designation or statusaccorded to a vendor for any of a myriad of reasons may indicate, forexample, that a particular vendor has distressed merchandise for sale atdiscount rates. Also, vendors that are not registered may be able toobtain appointments with buyers or buyers' assistants for predefinedshort periods of time, for example, five minutes.

[0057] To ensure effective and proper directing and exchange of traffic,for example, special offers by vendors and responses thereto by buyers,requests for proposals from buyers and responses thereto by vendors, orthe like, merchandise codes that apply to each wholesale vendor andwholesale buyer are recorded. The merchandise codes, discussed in moredetail below, regulate communication and avoid information overload, asby providing an indication of the type of products that each particularvendor or buyer is authorized to sell or buy.

[0058] It should be recognized that appointment schedules also stored invendor and buyer cells VC and BC (FIGS. 7 and 8), respectively, may berevised and updated on site by the traffic control system. For example,considering a situation where a last minute cancellation or change withrespect to a schedule, special offering, request for proposal orproposal is necessary, changes, cancellations or updates to any of thesetransactions may be requested remotely by vendors and buyers alike.Moreover, vendors or buyers may wish to add pertinent information duringvisual conferences (real-time) simply for storage in the cells VC and BCor otherwise for subsequent processing.

[0059] To recap, under control of the traffic control system TIS, thedial-up public telephone system TS affords effective communicationbetween the remote locations L1-Ln and the buyer systems BS1-BSn. Eachbuyer system located at a buyer's facility includes a telephone switchSW, through which incoming calls are received and outgoing calls areplaced. Incoming data signals (DNIS and ANI) are passed to the internalcontrol computer CC to select an appropriate one of the terminals V1-Vnto handle the call. For example, a station V1 might be assigned to buyerTom Jones at XYZ Drug company, responsible for purchasing vitamins andover the counter medications. In addition, the computer CC also providescomputer graphic signals to monitor station V1 supplementing the coupledtelevision display, for example, to provide a composite display of ascene at location L1 along with appropriate graphic data.

[0060] To consider the operation of the total-system embodiment insomewhat greater detail, reference will now be made to FIG. 2 in whichpreviously identified components bear similar reference numbers.Preliminarily, it should also be recognized that certain basiccomponents illustrated only at the central traffic control site TIS,such as memory, data storage, auto dialers, printers, VCRs etc.,obviously may also be found at the buyer sites.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the central traffic control systemTIS directs and exchanges on-line and off-line traffic between thevendor and buyer sites, in the form of special offerings, proposalsetc., as well as accepting appointment requests from either the vendoror the buyer sites. Appointment requests are generally initiated fromthe vendor locations L1-Ln. Subsequently, buyers initiate communicationwith specific vendors in accordance with scheduled appointments at theappropriate times.

[0062] The central traffic control system TIS may initiate contact withthe vendor locations L1-Ln or the buyer locations V1-Vn (inpredetermined sequence or randomly) to afford communication with thedesignated vendor or buyer. For visual conferences, buyers may initiatecontact with the appropriate vendor locations L1-Ln also in sequence,such as when scheduled, or in some instances randomly.

[0063] As illustrated in FIG. 2, different vendor locations may havedifferent communication capabilities, as represented by terminals VP1,VS1 for analog telephone communication capabilities over standard analoglines (static, videophone or PC), terminal VD1 for digital videocapabilities over ISDN lines, and CDP1 for a combined terminal foranalog and digital communication capabilities. For illustrationpurposes, FIG. 2 shows one telephone (see CDPI) as exhibiting bothanalog and digital communication capabilities.

[0064] The videophone terminal VP1 may be a unit available from AT&T,such as the Videophone 2500, or one available from MCI. A form of thedigital video system VD1, for example, the NCR PVS-70 system also isavailable from AT&T/NCR and is recognized to provide high qualityimages. A static video system VS1 may be AT&T's PICASSO™ still imagephone, which transmits “picture perfect” still color images and voicesimultaneously in just a matter of seconds. By pushing a button on thePICASSO™ phone, a still image for a camcorder or electronic camera maybe captured and, by pushing another button, that picture may betransmitted to another PICASSO™ phone. Such a video static systemconnects to standard analog telephone lines and is compatible with awide range of video technology used in daily communication and industrystandard camcorders, electronic cameras, mouse devices, documentscanners and photo CD players. Accordingly, full-color images, virtuallyof any type, size or dimension may be transmitted for display on a TV,LCD panel, PC monitor or video monitor. Images may be stored or printedusing a PC interface.

[0065]FIG. 2 also illustrates representative operator (buyer) terminalsV1-Vn, coupled to the traffic control system TIS. Of course, all theoperator terminals, as well as, the central traffic control system maybe compatibly configured. Note that different videophone systems, relyon their own proprietary codecs, sometimes with more than one as anoption. Generally, the operator terminals have the capability toaccommodate videophone operation along with telephone switching and avariety of control functions.

[0066] The central traffic control system TIS includes a computercontrol and interface system 28 coupled to several operating devicesincluding an auto dialer 30, a memory 32, a “D” channel signal processor34, an audio response unit (ARU) 36 and a caller test unit 38. Thesestructures and their interconnections are disclosed in greater detailbelow.

[0067] The computer control and interface system 28 also is connected toa clock 40 and an operator station 42. The clock 40 may controlscheduling operations as explained above. For example, updates orchanges to appointments, such as cancellations, may be remotelyimplemented (for example, via the central traffic control system) andforwarded to the appropriate buyer in a variety of ways, such asfacsimile, electronic-mail, voice-mail or the like. The clock 40 maylikewise monitor time limitations, as when special offerings andproposals are only valid for defined intervals of time.

[0068] With the live operator station 42, calls from vendors seekingappointments, making special offerings, or alternatively, calls frombuyers seeking appointments or proposals, may be transferred to a humanoperator, in the event there are complications with the automaticresponse units or message recording equipment or in the event callersare calling from a rotary telephone. Some vendors or buyers may alwaysprefer telephone communication with a human operator at some level.

[0069] As indicated above, flexibility to accommodate various vendorequipment configurations is an important aspect of the central trafficcontrol system TIS and the operator terminals V1-Vn. In that regard, itshould be recognized that even though only the buyer operator terminalsV1-Vn are shown coupled to a format switch 41 (lower center), thecentral traffic control system TIS also has some form of a formatswitch, shown as part of the video file server. The format switch 41selects a compatible one of analog video circuits and static videocircuits (on analog communication lines) and digital video circuits (ondigital communication lines) for driving one or more monitorsincorporating such specific circuits. Each of the video monitors V1-Vncarry a camera C1-Cn which may variously facilitate dynamic motionimages and still images. The format switch unit 41 can switch a singleanalog line 39 (from analog lines AL1-ALn) to couple to eithervideophone circuits or static video circuits or a digital line (or linesfrom digital lines DL1-DLn) indicated at 39 a to couple to digital videocircuits. Note that two lines are typically required for digital video,one for audio and one for digital data. Alternatively, the audio linemay also serve as the analog line.

[0070] A video recorder (VCR) also may be provided, indicated generallyat 51 a, which may be set to record continuously or intermittently, toprovide historical data for subsequent reference when conferring with asupervisor or refreshing the memory with respect to specific features.Alternatively, a video printer, also indicated at 51 a, may be used. Onreceiving a request command, for example from the traffic controlstation TIS, the video recorder may record compressed video signals ofthe display images. Of course, continuous recording by the videorecorder may be suspended when desired.

[0071] At locations where more than one camera is positioned, a singlevideo recorder may be connected to the multiple cameras via a switchingdevice to control and sequence the recordings from the cameras. Aswitching device such as the intelligent sequential switchermanufactured by SONY, as Model No. YS-S100, may be used to control andsequence multiple recordings. In addition, plural video recorders, suchas separate video recorders for recording images transmitted on digitalor analog lines may be connected.

[0072] In some situations, select frozen frames of viewings of vendorproducts or a specific time period of each viewing of a vendor productmay be recorded on a VCR or printed using a video printer, for exampletwo seconds (specific time period) of a twenty minute appointment foreach vendor location. Such video printing may be obtained both by buyersand vendors.

[0073] Likewise, the operator terminal V1 (or the vendor location or thecentral traffic control system), for example, may incorporate a standardline printer for providing a printed record of predetermined vendorcommunications, e.g., indicating the date, time, location, period ofappointment etc. Thus, a detailed hard-copy record is available whendesired.

[0074] The traffic control system TIS also includes within a memory 32or separate therefrom, a video EDI 35 for storing EDI software(Electronic Data Interchange facilitating direct computer-to-computerexchange of forms) or the like. It should be recognized that the buyerterminals V1-Vn may also have EDI software or the like stored in memory,by virtue of which, easy access to and exchange of forms is facilitated.The traffic control system TIS also includes a video file server 37,where vendors and buyers may deposit a video recording of a productbeing offered by a vendor or alternatively, desired by a buyer. A blockindicated at 45 and labeled “data storage” stores standard system andnetwork software. Selectivity logic, indicated at 47, to preventinformation overload selectively directs communications between membersof plural groups or sub-groups, such as wholesale buyer and vendorgroups. Operations relating to the selectivity logic 47 are discussedbelow.

[0075] At this stage, consider an initial phase of a vendor schedulingan appointment. In that regard, select vendors are given advance noticeof calling numbers and operating instructions. Accordingly, consider anexemplary operation sequence from the vendor telephone AT1 (FIG. 2).Thus, the vendor initiates dial-up operation with the central systemTIS, seeking to schedule an appointment with the specific buyer. With aconnection, a called number is indicated by Dialed Number IdentificationSignals (DNIS) utilizing facilities readily available and provided bythe dial-up telephone system TS through the so-called D-channelapparatus 34. Thus, the central traffic control system has a basis fordetermining if, by reason of dialing the called number, the vendor isentitled to make an appointment with a specified buyer. A PIN numberentered by the vendor may also qualify a caller (vendor).

[0076] The dial-up telephone system TS also provides Automatic NumberIdentification (ANI) signals indicating the calling number on theso-called D-channel apparatus 34. In various operational phases of thepresent disclosed embodiment, such signals identify the remote vendorlocation L1 to the central traffic control system TIS. Using suchinformation, the memory 32 may provide alternate forms of callingsignals, commanding a specific outgoing line from the telephoneinterface and control unit 28 to afford additional communication.Specifically, for example, ANI signals might command various relateddata from the memory 32. Thus, an appointment may be scheduled forexecution at a later time as explained in detail below.

[0077] As an alternative to simply scheduling an appointment, assumethat the caller is located at the buyer terminal VP1 and wishes toinitiate video contact with a specific buyer. Upon attainingcommunication, the call may be processed, for example, directly to thebuyer terminal V1, at which appropriate videophone communication isprovided with the vendor. In that regard, video monitors at theterminals V1-Vn may be compatible to receive videophone signals throughthe dial-up telephone system TS and the interface system 28 of thetraffic control system TIS.

[0078] Whether a conference is implemented as a result of a direct callfrom a vendor, or as a result of a scheduled appointment, in accordancewith the present development, the selected operator terminal V1-Vn(buyer terminal) is formatted to a configuration compatible with theconnected vendor terminal. In that regard, the terminal AT1 (vendor)simply accommodates audio and digital signals and is representative ofsuch terminals for use to schedule appointments, as in an ARU interface.Alternatively, person-to-person communication is available through theoperator station 42.

[0079] The videophone terminal VP1 is representative of such units toprovide one form of audio/video communication with one of the terminalsV1-Vn. During such communication, the switch 41 is actuated to activatethe videophone circuits to function in cooperation with one of themonitors V1 or Vn. Thus, compatible communication is implemented foreach outgoing call, utilizing data from the memory 32.

[0080] For communication with static video systems (PICASSOT™ units) asrepresented by the terminal VS1, the switch 41 actuates the static videocircuits for compatible operation of a monitor V1 or Vn. Note thatparticularly effective operations may involve combination formats, forexample, a videophone and a static video system (likely using a singleanalog line). Specifically, with both of the appropriate circuitsoperative, the camera and the monitor V1 may function in a videophoneformat to accommodate effective personal communication between a buyerand a seller. Concurrently, the camera and the monitor V1 may operate ina static video format to effectively exhibit a vendor's product.Additionally, a mouse 51 at the terminal VS1, controls a cursor in thedisplay of the monitor V1 further enhancing interactive communication. Amouse, such as the one indicated at 51 may also be provided at the buyerterminals V1-Vn. Again, the switch 41 controls the operations to attainthe compatible format.

[0081] To further illustrate the possibilities, the terminal VD1 isrepresentative of high fidelity (hi-fi) telephonic video systems usingdigital lines for higher resolution dynamic displays. As with respect tothe other formats, the switch 41 selectively actuates the compatiblecircuits, the digital video circuits, to drive a selected combination ofcamera and monitor.

[0082] It may be seen that the video platforms of terminals V1-Vn offerconsiderable flexibility in accommodating multiple audio-video formats.Convenience is served by the multiple format capability of the cameraalong with the video monitor V1-Vn.

[0083] Recapitulating, the terminal V1 has been described forcommunication with the various equipments at locations to include avideo location for display. In addition to the display, each of theterminals V1-Vn incorporates a handpiece or equivalent, and asubstantial control panel that may be in the form of a telephone pad orembodied as part of a personal computer keyboard. In any event, thecontrol panel for each terminal V1-Vn includes the current controls foran operative video format, plus dedicated controls relating to thedisclosed system. In that regard, in the interest of avoiding unduecomplications, only a fragment of the representative panel 80 for theterminal V1 is shown in FIG. 4.

[0084] Generally the panel 80 affords considerable control, includingthe use of keypad tone signals (DTMF) to perform control operations atboth ends of a communication. Specifically, the fragment of the panel 80of FIG. 4 incorporates a traditional twelve-button telephone pad 82,bearing the numerals “1” through “0” along with the symbols “*” and “#.”The designated buttons each generate a distinct DTMF signal inaccordance with extensive practice, which signals are communicated toall connected terminals.

[0085] Various other specific controls are provided on the panel 80. Anon-off button 84 controls outgoing audio. A toggle 86 controls thevolume of incoming audio. An on-off switch 88 controls video at theterminal. A pair of toggle switches 90 and 91, respectively, controlzooming and panning camera operations. A push button switch 93 serves asan interrupt for locking onto the current display (high quality freezeframe) for closer observation or to record data and in some cases higherresolution images for closer observation at a later time, for example,by use of a video printer. In addition, another toggle switch 95controls tilting camera operations and a push button 97 advances thefreeze frame for subsequent observation or reverses it back to a dynamicdisplay. A push button switch 99 serves to manually terminate the call.A control switch 101 regulates resolution of the display. Finally asignal lamp 103 illuminates to indicate the next appointment. Generally,by using the telephone keypad 82 on the panel 80, various controlfunctions can be accomplished as detailed in the parent patentapplications identified herein under the caption “CROSS REFERENCE TORELATED APPLICATIONS” and incorporated herein by reference.

[0086] One form of control involves video coordination. For example, inaccordance with a program, a conference might be initiated in avideophone format with the terminal V1 (FIG. 2). Accordingly, thevideophone circuits are active to drive the video monitor V1. At somepoint, assume the conference participants decide to add a static videocommunication. A command of “52” in touch tones on the pad 82 (see FIG.3) initiates a series of operations. Specifically, another lineconnection is established by actuating the autodialer 30 (FIG. 2), thenstatic video circuits are actuated. At the terminal V1, the static videocircuits are actuated to drive the monitor V1 that may involve anothermonitor or split image operation. Separate displays for dynamic andstill video may be used, such that a buyer at one monitor can conferwith a vendor, speaking face-to-face through the camera and thatmonitor, while the vendor exhibits fine details of a product on a secondmonitor in a still image. Of course, in sequences of such still images,views can be changed and areas highlighted with a cursor controlled bythe mouse 51.

[0087] As an alternative to actuating the static video format, theconferees may elect to go digital. A command “53” from the panel 46 setsthe requisite steps in motion. The autodialer 30 dials up a digitalconnection, then using that connection, the switch 41 actuates thedigital video circuits to drive one of the monitors V1-Vn. Note thatwith enhanced hi-fi video communication, the assumed videophonecommunication might best be terminated.

[0088] In view of these examples, it will be apparent that the operatorat the terminal V1 has substantial control, including the ability to gofrom one video format to another. Of course, such operations presumethat the vendor has the requisite capacity, which may be indicated inthe graphic display as treated in greater detail below.

[0089] From the above descriptions, it is apparent that the disclosedsystem utilizes videophone technology in combination with othertelephone system technology along with computer control and graphicstechnology to accomplish effective scheduling and processing of trafficfor visual conferences.

[0090] As explained above, the exemplary central traffic control systemTIS functions to initiate outgoing calls as well as receive and processincoming calls. To resume with the explanation of an incoming call froma vendor to schedule an appointment, when the telephone interface 28(FIG. 2) receives an incoming call, it may be connected to either theoperator station 42 or the audio response unit 36. Concurrently,incoming data signals (DNIS and ANI) are provided to the “D” channelprocessor 34 for control and/or information. For example, from thememory 32, the control computer 28 may fetch the identification of thevendor location L1 embracing one or more of the terminals VD1, etc. Withsuch signal represented data, one or more buyers are identified withwhom the vendor or vendor organization is entitled to schedule anappointment. However, to schedule an appointment, a vendor may usevirtually any form of telephone instrument or terminal including any ofthe units AT1, VP1, VS1, VD1 or CDP1 as illustrated in FIG. 2. The unitAT1 is sufficient either for a telephonic-computer interactive call or adirect operator call (station 42) to schedule an appointment or thelike.

[0091] Initially, as described above, inbound calls for a buyer,initiated by vendors, may be received through the interface system 28(FIG. 2, upper right) for scheduling appointments or directlyaccommodated at a buyer location by the interface telephone switch SW(FIG. 1, center left) including the format switch 41 for visualconferences. The format switch 41 may incorporate a variable codec foranalog lines AL1-ALN and digital lines DL1-DLN. For analog lines, avideo CODEC along with computing capability may take the form of anAVP1000 video CODEC chip set as available from AT&T. Essentially, theCODEC chip set accomplishes videophone operation and consists of a videoencoder, a video decoder and an internal system controller. The formatswitch unit 41 is shown as coupled between a standard analog line and aline on ISDN. Upon receiving a call from a videophone unit, the formatswitch unit 41 selects the appropriate line, that is, the analog line.Alternatively, upon receiving a call from a high fidelity video(digital), the format switch unit 41 selects a digital line. Also, asdescribed above, during visual communication (real-time), a buyer maymake switches, e.g., from transmitting dynamic images over a singleanalog line to high resolution freeze frames. The high resolution freezeframes may be viewed on large 14 inch monitors. Further, the images maybe manipulated from either end, to view the freeze frame imageconcurrently.

[0092] In the operation of the system embracing the exemplary formats astreated above and below, a record is made for billing purposes. That is,a billing memory unit BL (FIG. 1) and a standard printer (treated below)are controlled by the computer control 28, recording all transactions inrelation to billing charges. Such data can be variously processed atdifferent times. Basically, the concept involves formulating billingdata, so that at least a part of the calls made to a vendor, forexample, can be rebilled to that vendor.

[0093] Considering the dial-up telephone system TS (FIG. 2) in somewhatgreater detail, in arrangement, the inter-exchange carrier (e.g., AT&T)provides comprehensive data on calls specifying: phone number calling,phone number called, date, time, length of call (period), billing dataand so on. Test or look-up operations are then performed with referenceto a vendor database. Accordingly, portions of the charges (with orwithout mark-ups) are rebilled (with appropriate identification to thevendors). Such operations may be particularly effective in relation to“private” networks, e.g., the so-called SDN (software defined network),SDDN (software defined data network) which are compatible with ISDNoperations, or a combination of the two service offerings (SDN withSDDN). Note that AT&T's SDN is a virtual network service which offers anorganization the ability to build a private corporate network within theAT&T public network. A customized database contains information onvarious sites affiliated with the organization (i.e., the serviceorganization installs a “private” network service at many differentbusiness entities) as well as features and routing information.Moreover, SDN encompasses voice, analog data, digital data and imagetransfer. SDDN is a feature of SDN and is most often installed inconjunction with SDN. A combination of the two provides the capabilityof combining all the different sites for network management and billing.Note that both buyers and vendors may wish to extend the scope of thenetwork of participants by installing at least one similar mode of videoin their branches, plants and/or customers.

[0094] Essentially, coordinated with the control computer 28 in thesystem TIS, reapportioning and rebilling options are executed by thebilling data unit utilizing storage capacity of the memory 32 or aseparate billing data memory.

[0095] To this point, detailed consideration has been primarily directedto the treatment of incoming calls to the system TIS. However, asexplained, certain modes involve the placement of outgoing calls undereither manual control or automatic operation. Such operations next aretreated in detail.

[0096] As a result of control operations, to implement a sequence ofscheduled conferences, the computer control and interface system 28(FIG. 2) at the central traffic control site or the control computer CCat the buyer site (FIG. 1) may address, for example, the memory 32 tofetch the telephone number for an outgoing call, e.g., a vendor locationL1. The telephone number is supplied from the memory 32 (or a memory atthe buyer location) to the control computer CC which actuates an autodialer, similar to auto dialer 30, to provide the dial-up signals on anoff-hook line provided to the dial-up telephone system TS. Typically, atthe vendor location L1, a dedicated or other line for video operationswill accept the communication.

[0097] As an alternative to manual calls, the system may operate undercomputer control to enable a sequence of appointments. During theoperation, the control computer CC (FIG. 1) fetches telephone numbersfor remote locations from the memory 32 (or a memory on site) insequence, actuates the auto dialer 34 accordingly, and assigns theresulting connections as scheduled. After a session between a particularbuyer and vendor has concluded, the control computer CC terminates theconnection in favor of the next waiting connection. A blinking light 103(FIG. 3) or alternatively, a graphic display of “Five more minutes forthe next appointment” may be exhibited to the caller to indicate a nextappointment. The operation may result in sequential displays that havebeen scheduled at the particular one of the terminals V1-Vn.

[0098] Different selling and buying companies may be registered with thecentral traffic control system TIS. At registration, central trafficcontrol system TIS may issue an identification card with a check digitfor qualification to each representative of the selling or buyingcompany (FIG. 5). An exemplary identification card (embodied fordisplay) is indicated at 211. For example, assume that XYZ company hasfour vendor representatives, all located at vendor location L1 equippedwith analog capabilities only. Further assume that the telephone numberfor that location is (212) 555-5555. Accordingly, the traffic controlsystem TIS may assign a identification number and store the followinginformation under that identification number in memory: Jones, Roger,XYZ Toy Company, Analog System, Telephone number (212) 555-5555,Registered to interact with EFG Company (central station number—(310)666-6666), no priority, IJK Company (central station number—(414)777-7777), priority with buyer no. 3, Thursday appointments may beoffered to vendors with priority status. At registration, each vendorand buyer fills out a subscription form or otherwise provides thecentral traffic control system with specific information, such as thenature of the merchandise they are designated to sell or buy. Thisinformation may be provided with reference to an established list ofmerchandise codes. The designated merchandise codes assist theselectivity logic 47 in making routing determinations to avoidinformation overload. Similarly, vendors and buyers seeking appointmentsare qualified on the basis of these merchandise codes and limited tomaking appointments only with authorized persons.

[0099] To make an appointment, a special offering or a proposal inresponse to a buyer request, the vendor may initiate dial-up operationswith the central traffic control system TIS. For such calls, the ARU 36may provide voice cues to the vendor and prompt touch tone input ofresponses as described above. A single ARU may be used for differentorganizations, alternatively, different ARU's may be used for differentlarge organizations. The ARU's may include voice-mail capabilities forindividual buyers. After recording all the information pertaining to aspecial offering or proposal, the central traffic control systemprovides reservation or identification numbers. For example, callers maybe queried via the ARU if calling to cancel an appointment or supplementa special offering or proposal. If a call is merely to cancel anappointment, the vendor would only need to enter the appointment number.Likewise, if the call is simply to report that a sale for a specialoffering has been consummated, the vendor may only need to enter anidentification number.

[0100] Note that live operators also may take information from vendorsand access the traffic control computer TIS to enter appropriate requestdata processed similar to the automatic features of the system in theevent vendors are calling from a rotary telephone or for other reasons.Additionally, the live operators may transfer calls to an ARU to enablevendors to leave voice-mail messages.

[0101] The traffic control system TIS may provide schedule or other datato individual buyers via facsimile, either automatically or uponrequest. Alternatively, schedule or other data may be provided toindividual buyers by downloading data onto a computer at the buyer'slocation typically in batch mode overnight. Recent changes toappointments or special offerings and proposals may be displayed on thebuyer's terminal (real-time) or forwarded by electronic-mail.

[0102] At the central traffic control site, which may service numerousbusiness entities, several audio response units (ARU) may be used inconjunction with several groups of live operators. To accommodate largenumbers of calls, automatic call distributors (ACD) may be utilized toroute calls where the different business entities are identified byDNIS.

[0103] It should be recognized that video recordings on specificmerchandise may be stored at the video file server 37 for viewing bybuyers and sales may be consummated without any visual conferencesbetween vendors and buyers.

[0104] Also, it should be recognized that the buyer terminals disclosedherein may be used by retailers to sell products directly to the personshaving units similar to the vendor units described herein in theirhomes. In such a scenario, ANI may be used to identify a particularhousehold calling, and DNIS may be used to identify a particular productof interest.

[0105] As indicated above, the traffic control system TIS incorporatesstructure for a wide variety of communications through the dial-uptelephone system TS. FIG. 5 illustrates a more specific exemplary formof the system TIS. A telephone interface T12 (upper left) accommodates amultitude of line connections to the dial-up public telephone system TS(FIGS. 1 and 2) accommodating two-way communication with variouscapabilities as treated above.

[0106] The interface structure T12 (FIG. 5) accommodates the placementof outgoing calls by an auto dialer T14 controlled by a computer T16incorporating substantial memory. Auto dialers are well known in thetelephone arts functioning to place calls in response to digitalinstructions. As the source of such digital instructions, along withothers, the control computer T16 comprises a substantial computingcapability, functioning to control telephonic traffic in variouscommunication forms through the telephone interface structure T12.Traffic is controlled, both for servicing and interconnecting remoteterminals at both vendor and buyer locations, e.g., buyer locationsBS1-BSn (FIG. 1) and vendor terminals, e.g. terminals L1-Ln.

[0107] The control computer T16 also is connected to an audio responseunit T18 for vocally cuing and otherwise interfacing remote stationsthrough the telephone interface structure T12. Again, various forms ofaudio response units are well known in the telephonic arts forverbalizing cues, receiving digital signals and performing someprocessing. In that regard, the audio response unit T18 may incorporatesome dictionary capability or may rely on the control computer T16 foran extended dictionary of words to be vocalized.

[0108] The control computer T16 also is connected to receive signalsfrom the telephone interface structure T12 through a “D” channel circuitT20. For example, the “D” channel circuit receives ANI and DNIS signalsindicative of calling and called station numbers as explained above.Essentially, the “D” channel circuit T20 provides call relatedinformation to the control computer T16 in accordance with well knowntechniques of the telephonic arts.

[0109] Recapitulating to some extent, it may be seen that the controlcomputer T16, along with the above-mentioned structures, has substantialcapability to interface with remote terminals. However, under certainconditions, manual communication also may be desired. Accordingly, asexplained above, an operator station T21 is coupled to the computer T16to accommodate a human interface. The operator station T21 may take theform of a CRT terminal with graphics display capability and variouscontrols (FIG. 5) implemented through the control computer T16.

[0110] As indicated above, to accomplish the traffic control function,the computer T16 has substantial computing capability, specifically, forpurposes of control, storage management, delivery, scheduling andinterconnecting remote stations. For convenience of explanation, in FIG.5, several operating components that could be integrated in the computerT16 are separately illustrated. Such separate illustration alsofacilitates the operating explanations. Specifically, separate storagecapacity is illustrated in the form of a buyer-vendor storage unit T24and a buyer-vendor/merchandise code storage unit T26. The storage unitsT24 and T26 are addressed by the control computer T16 to provide datathat is processed along with other data to control and facilitateon-line and off-line communications between buyer and vendor terminals.

[0111] As suggested above, communication between the various vendors andbuyers involves substantial control and regulation along withlimitations, thus, the term traffic control is deemed appropriate. Inthat regard, a qualification unit T28 is coupled both to the controlcomputer T16 and the storage units T24 and T26. Essentially, thequalification unit T28 receives identification and limitation data toqualify buyers and vendors for select individual communications. Thestorage unit T26 is coupled directly to the computer T16, along with abilling data memory T30 and a printer T32 for operation as mentionedabove.

[0112] Summarizing the extensive treatment above, the present systemvariously implements both online and offline communication as betweenvendors and buyers. The communication is considerably enhanced by videodisplays. Accordingly, a video file server T34 is coupled directly tothe telephone interface structure T12 and to the control computer T16. Amonitor station T36 is similarly coupled, as for select time or callmonitoring.

[0113] In view of the preliminary description of the structure (FIG. 5)a comprehensive explanation of the system now may be expressed byassuming particular situations and describing typical operatingsequences. Accordingly, assume the structure of FIG. 5 is coupled as thetraffic control system TIS in the system of FIG. 2 for controlling andregulating select communications between vendor and buyer terminals. Inthat regard, a system of merchandise classification is used to enhancethe selectivity of communication to prevent information overload.Generally, merchandise is classified in accordance with a decimalsystem, somewhat equated to the channels of commerce for various goods.For example, a component of such a classification is as follows. CHART AMerchandise Decimal Code | Body Treatment 470000 Skin 471000 Sun Cream47260 Prevent & Protect 471230 Water Resist 471234 Tanning 471235 |Cream 471300 Moisture 471310 Cleansing 471320 | Hair 472000

[0114] In accordance with the exemplary classification, “body-treatment”merchandise carries the code “470000”. More explicit classifications ofsuch merchandise carry additional decimal indicators. For example, asindicated above, water-resistant, sun protection treatment would beidentified by the code “471234”. Accordingly, entire ranges ofmerchandise are classified and coded to control and regulatecommunication traffic in accordance herewith.

[0115] Generally, preliminary inquiries, offers for sale and requestsfor proposals all carry merchandise codes for selectively identifyingpotentially interested vendors or buyers. As a further element ofclassification, buyers or vendors also may be assigned specific codes,for example, designating a business primarily as, supermarkets,department stores, drug stores and so on.

[0116] As detailed below, the operation of the system will be treated asit regulates and controls video communication, for example, selectivelybetween vendors and buyers, to expedite traditionally complex purchasingoperations. In that regard, the embodiment treats six types of telephonecalls. Specifically, primary calls are classified in accordance with thefollowing chart. CHART B Type Call Nature “A” Vendor with specialoffering “B” Buyer responding to special offering “C” Buyer with Requestfor Proposal (RFP) “D” Vendor responding to RFP “E” Vendor seekingappointment “F” Buyer seeking appointment

[0117] Typically, calls of the various types involve some form ofqualification or approval. For example, access to the system typicallywill be limited to qualified or registered entities. Also, certainlimitations will be imposed on such entities. For example, calls thatwould reveal one vendor's proposal to another vendor are inhibited.Also, it may be desirable to limit calls from buyers accessinginformation related to another buyer. Of course, specific forms oflimitations and qualifications may be implemented depending uponspecific applications. However, in accordance with the disclosedembodiment, the types of calls set out above, all involve some form ofqualification. The qualifications are generally performed by thequalification unit T28 (FIG. 5) utilizing information derived from acall correlated with reference data from the storage units T24 and T26.In that regard, the logic for the qualification unit T28 may beimplemented in accordance with the flow diagram of FIG. 6 as will now beconsidered.

[0118] In the disclosed embodiment, the qualifications for buyers andvendors are somewhat similar. Specifically, the tests for a callingvendor are:

[0119] Is the calling station registered as a vendor (or buyer)?

[0120] Can the caller give a proper PIN number (Identification Number)?

[0121] Is the vendor qualified for the designated merchandise?

[0122] Is the vendor approved for an identified buyer or buyers?

[0123] The tests for calling a buyer are quite similar. To consider thelogic embodied in the qualification unit T28 (FIG. 5), reference willnow be made somewhat concurrently to FIGS. 5 and 6. With the occurrenceof an incoming call through the telephone interface structure T12 (FIG.5), “D” channel signals are supplied through the circuit T20 to thecontrol computer T16. As a result, the computer T16 addresses thebuyer-vendor storage unit T24, using the call number of the originatingterminal (ANI). Of course, in other applications DNIS signals may besimilarly employed. The operation is illustrated by a block T40 (FIG.6). Addressed by the calling number, the storage unit T24 (FIG. 5)supplies representative signals indicating: first, that the callingterminal does belong to a registered buyer or seller, whether the entityis a buyer or a seller, and the identification number (PIN) for theentity. The operation of consulting the storage unit T24 or look-uptable is illustrated by a query block T42 in FIG. 6.

[0124] If the calling terminal number is not located, indicating anunregistered caller, the qualification unit T28 (FIG. 5) actuates thecomputer T16 for appropriate control. Specifically, the audio responseunit T18 may be prompted to provide a termination message or theoperator station T21 may be actuated for a human interface. Suchalternatives are represented in FIG. 7 by the block T44.

[0125] For calls originating from a registered terminal, thequalification unit T28 (FIG. 5) stores the pertinent data, i.e., buyeror seller and reference PIN. The operation is illustrated in FIG. 7 bythe block T46.

[0126] With the determination of a properly registered calling terminal,the computer T16 actuates the audio response unit T18 providing a verbalcue for an identification number (PIN). The operation is illustrated inFIG. 7 by the query block T48. If the caller enters keypad digitalinformation indicating an invalid PIN, or makes no entry at all, theoperation again proceeds to the block T44 for termination or transfer ofthe call as explained above. With the entry of a valid PIN, theoperation proceeds to store the personal identification number asindicated by a block T50.

[0127] The qualification unit T28 (FIG. 5) next functions in cooperationwith the computer T16 driving the audio response unit T18 to cue thecaller for the type of call and the merchandise code, see blocks T52 andT54 (FIG. 6) representing such operations. Although such operations arenot detailed in FIG. 6, it is to be understood that improper responsesor the lack of a response will transfer the process to the function ofblock T44, as illustrated, to terminate or transfer the call. On thecontrary, if appropriate information is received, the qualification unitT28 (FIG. 5) receives and stores the requested information.Consequently, the unit T28 contains: the caller's PIN number, the calltype and the merchandise code. That data is then tested within thequalification unit T28, against reference data, in a process step asillustrated by the query block T56 in FIG. 7. The details of the testare treated in somewhat greater detail below; however, as illustrated inFIG. 7, if the tests are not successful, the process again proceeds tothe termination block T44; otherwise, the process proceeds to a blockT58 to implement the substantive communication of the call.

[0128] The final test of the call involves operation of thequalification unit T28 (FIG. 5) in conjunction with the storage unitT26. That is, for each buyer and vendor, the unit T26 stores merchandisecodes and, in some instances, other special information. For example,typically, vendors may be denied access to certain information. Forexample, a vendor would not have access to the type calls: “A” (aspecial offering of another vendor), “D” (another vendor responding toan RFP) and so on. However, exceptions are possible and in that regardit is simply important to appreciate that special situations may bestored in the unit T26.

[0129] Returning to the routine situation, as indicated above, eachbuyer and vendor is associated with specific merchandise codes. In thatregard, merchandise codes not only facilitate and expedite communicationbut additionally, charges and billing data (for storage in the memoryT30) may be based on active merchandise codes for a subscriber.

[0130] Pursuing a specific example, assume a caller, identified as avendor and otherwise qualified is pursuing the presentation of a specialoffering. Further assume that the calling vendor is associated only withhair products (Chart A, code 472000). However, assume that the calleridentifies the “merchandise of interest” to be a water resistant sunskin product, code 471234. Thus, the identified merchandise code doesnot coincide with the caller's registered merchandise code. In such acase, the processing is halted with the consequence that the call iseither terminated or transferred to an operator. At this stage, likelyoperation would involve referring the call to an operator. Thus, thequalification unit T28 concludes the test by assuring that the entitybeing represented by a call is authorized for access with respect to theidentified codes.

[0131] Once a caller has been identified, the control computer T16 (FIG.5) functions primarily in conjunction with the video file server T34 toimplement the communication. Of course, in instances where anappointment is sought, as described in detail above, the function of thevideo file server T34 may be relatively nominal. Note with regard toappointments, that a caller may simply request an appointmentimmediately within call types “E” and “F”. That is, within the conceptof obtaining an appointment, a caller may simply seek to speak with aparticular vendor or buyer representative immediately.

[0132] To consider the specific operations, assume that the exemplarycaller is a vendor with a special offering, i.e., call type “A”. As aspecific example, the caller may represent a vendor entity dealing indistressed merchandise holding a considerable volume of hair shampoopackaged for women, i.e., merchandise code “472147”. With themerchandise codes stored, the control computer T16 actuates the videofile server T34 along with the audio response unit T18 to receive avideo presentation of the merchandise, that is, the hair shampoo.Typically, the vendor will have organized the presentation prior tomaking the telephone call so that the merchandise can be variouslydemonstrated and various information including pricing etc. expressed inthe video presentation. Thus, an effective record of the videopresentation is stored in the file server T34 essentially in the form ofa sales presentation for the hair shampoo, that is, product code“472147”.

[0133] With the completion of the video record, the control computer T16actuates the storage unit T26 to isolate all buyers associated with theproduct code “472147” identifying hair shampoo. With the list of buyersidentified and a video presentation recorded, the subsequent operationsinvolve communicating the video presentation to the select group ofbuyers. In accordance with the disclosed embodiment, the identifiedbuyer group is notified of the availability of the demonstration.Thereafter, qualified buyers may establish communication (call “B”)through the telephone interface structure T12 (FIG. 5) to receive thestored video presentation from the file server T34. Various specificarrangements may be involved. The central traffic system may maintain arecord or log of all the buyers accessing the video file server, whichmay be provided to the vendor, upon request. A record of the time(provided by the clock) spent by each buyer in viewing a videopresentation may also be maintained. For example, a specific buyer mayterminate the video after viewing it for only a few minutes, whileanother buyer may view the entire video presentation. The vendor mayrequest such information to determine buyers' reactions to the specialoffering, for marketing or other reasons.

[0134] In some situations, it may be particularly advantageous forbuyers to receive early notice of a special offering by a vendor.Accordingly, it may be desirable to implement a rotational order schemeor a random operation for determining the sequence in notifying buyers.Specifically, a random number generator may be incorporated in thecontrol computer T16 for ordering the list of buyers for notification.

[0135] Notices to buyers or vendors also may vary considerably,depending upon individual programming considerations. In somesituations, vendors may provide a special list of buyers oralternatively, exclude specific buyers. All buyers and vendors areprovided with a list of participating members of the network, atregistration. Periodic updates of new members may be circulated fromtime to time.

[0136] In accordance with the disclosed embodiment, the control computerT16 simply actuates the auto dialer T14 to establish telephoniccommunication with buyers after which the audio response unit T18notifies the buyer. Alternatives involve the utilization of facsimile orthe like capability or various forms of electronic mail may beincorporated for utilization. In any event, the select group of buyersis notified that the presentation on a hair shampoo packaged for womenis accessible by interfacing through the telephone structure T12.Responding buyers (call type “B”) are qualified as described above, thencoupled to the video file server T34 to receive the video presentation.Thereafter, interested buyers may directly contact the vendor, typicallyfor further video communication. Thus, the foundation for a transactionis completed rapidly and effectively with substantial communication ofthe goods involved and related considerations.

[0137] Another possibility involves type “C” calls, whereby a buyerdistributes a request for proposal. Again, various communications may beaccomplished to a select group or sub-group of vendors based onmerchandise codes. To consider a specific form of communication inaccordance herewith, after qualification, a buyer might use videocommunication to notify vendors with a graphic such as one illustratedin FIG. 9. FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary buyer request form providingspecific information of the merchandise. Blank forms may be stored in aforms directory (e.g. menu-driven) or the like on each buyers terminal.Thus, when making a request for proposals, a buyer may simply access ablank form and enter the specific information. Essentially, amerchandise code number “472361” is supplied, indicating the specificproduct as also identified in the graphic. After the notice has beensent to vendors, a message as represented in FIG. 10 may be transmittedto the buyer from the central traffic control system TIS. Note that acheck digit may be supplied. Likewise, vendors may access blank forms,similar to the exemplary buyer request forms, to indicate specialofferings.

[0138] Following receipt of a request for proposal, interested vendorsmay submit a video presentation as described above. Alternatively,vendors may be invited to call for an appointment or otherwisecommunicate their proposals to buyers. Thus, the system affordsconsiderable flexibility in selectively communicating productinformation between buyers and sellers using video formats.

[0139] In view of the above description, it will be apparent thatnumerous operating formats, programs and layouts may be accomplishedusing a wide variety of videophone equipment in cooperation withcomputing and telephone apparatus. As indicated above, the disclosedembodiments afford some arrangements; however, the scope hereof shouldnot so confined, rather the scope hereof should be in accordance withthe claims as set forth below.

What is claimed is:
 1. A communication traffic system for selectivelyenabling communications between members of plural groups, as buyergroups and vendor groups, for video communication through a dial-uptelephone system, comprising: a telephonic interface apparatus forinterfacing remote telephonic terminals of said dial-up telephonesystem, said terminals being identified with said members of pluralgroups; a video recording unit for recording and playing videotranscriptions; a storage memory for storing data on said members ofsaid groups, including telephonic terminal numbers and assigned codes;and a control computer to selectively interconnect said video recordingunit with said remote telephone terminals through said telephonicinterface apparatus to record and receive video communication.
 2. Acommunication traffic system in accordance with claim 1, furtherincluding a qualification unit for testing said remote terminals forselective interconnection to said video recording unit.
 3. Acommunication traffic system in accordance with claim 1, wherein saidtelephonic interface apparatus includes an audio response unit.
 4. Acommunication traffic system in accordance with claim 1, wherein saidtelephonic interface apparatus includes an audio dialer.
 5. Acommunication traffic system in accordance with claim 1, wherein saidtelephonic interface apparatus includes an audio response unit and anautodialer.
 6. A communication traffic system in accordance with claim1, wherein said telephonic interface apparatus includes a “D” channelcircuit for receiving terminal data indicative of telephonic terminalnumbers, said terminal data being supplied to said control computer. 7.A communication system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said storagememory includes a memory capability storing data for testing telephonicterminal numbers for selective access to said video recording unit.
 8. Acommunication traffic system in accordance with claim 1, wherein saidstorage memory includes a memory capability storing specificareas-of-interest codes for said members indicating approvals andwherein said control computer tests said codes for selectiveinterconnection to said video recording unit.
 9. A communication trafficsystem in accordance with claim 1, wherein said storage memory includesa memory capability storing member associations with said plural groups.11. A communication traffic system for selectively interfacingparticipants of one group at one plurality of remote video telephonicterminals with participants of another group at another plurality ofremote video terminals through a dial-up telephone system, comprising: avideo recording unit for recording and playing video transcriptions; astorage memory for storing access codes for said participants of saidgroup; and a control computer for selectively intercoupling said videorecording unit and said remote video telephonic terminals of saidpluralities in accordance with said access codes in said storage memory.12. A process of controlling video communication traffic betweenparticipants of one group at one plurality of remote video telephonicterminals and participants of another group at another plurality ofremote video telephonic terminals through a dial-up telephone system,comprising the steps of: storing access codes for said participants toindicate areas-of-interest; interfacing said remote video telephonicterminals through said dial-up telephone system to receiveidentification data for access codes; providing a video recordingcapability; and controlling selective interconnection of said remotevideo telephonic terminals to said video recording capability toselectively record and play video data.
 13. A communication trafficsystem for selectively enabling communications, between members ofplural groups, as buyer groups and vendor groups, said communicationsfacilitating data transmissions, stored video transcriptions andreal-time video communication through a dial-up telephone system,comprising: a telephonic interface apparatus for interfacing remotetelephonic terminals of said dial-up telephone system, said terminalsbeing identified with said members of said plural groups; a videorecording unit for recording and playing video presentations uponrequest by said members; a storage memory for storing data on saidmembers of said groups, including telephonic terminal numbers andassigned codes; and a control computer configured to accomplish at leastone of a variety of transactions, including selectively transmit data toselect members in accordance with said assigned codes, interconnect saidvideo recording unit with select remote telephone terminals through saidtelephonic interface apparatus to facilitate viewings of said videopresentations and process data obtained during real-time videocommunication between select members.
 14. A communication traffic systemas defined in claim 13, wherein said communication traffic system andsaid remote terminals comprise capabilities of transmitting andreceiving analog and digital video signals.
 15. A communication trafficsystem as defined in claim 13, further comprising: detail logic formaintaining a record of all telephonic charges incurred for billingcharges incurred by certain members to other members.
 16. Acommunication traffic system as defined in claim 13, wherein saidcomputer further comprises: memory structure for storing real-time videoconference schedule data, upon receiving calls from members of pluralgroups through said dial-up telephone facility.